Palamon and Arcite, cousins and bosom friends, are taken prisoner by Duke Theseus of Athens. While in captivity, they spy the beautiful Emilia. Both fall instantly in love with her, and their attachment turns to hate.

This dark-edged tragicomedy is now widely regarded as having been written by Shakespeare in collaboration with John Fletcher. Probably composed in 1613-14, it is the final play in Shakespeare's dramatic career.